2013 Top 5 Rookie Fantasy Football Running Backs

Now that the NFL draft is behind us, it is time for fantasy football nuts to start breaking down the rookies. Here’s the LestersLegends’ look at the 2013 NFL rookie running back class.

1. Montee Ball, Denver Broncos

Ball should assume the starting role in a very potent offense. Peyton Manning has plenty of weapons in the passing game, but he knows the value of a strong running game.

Ball ran for a ridiculous 73 touchdowns over the past three seasons. He had 39 combined touchdowns in 2011. Ball should handle the early downs and the goal-line work. He should be a solid RB2 with some upside.

2. Giovani Bernard, Cincinnati Bengals

Bernard gives the Bengals a dynamic running back. In two years at North Carolina, he averaged 1,240.5 rushing yards, 426 receiving yards, 16.5 total touchdowns and 46 receptions.

He'll have to share the load with BenJarvus Green-Ellis, which limits his 2013 value, but he gives Cincinnati more explosiveness. His versatility should keep Bernard on the field.

3. Eddie Lacy, Green Bay Packers

Lacy was expected to be the first running back to come off the board, but some concerns caused him to slide. Green Bay should be a great landing place.

He should see plenty of early-down carries and carries in the red zone. He'd likely be ranked higher if the Packers didn't add Jonathan Franklin as well.

4. Le'veon Bell, Pittsburgh Steelers

Bell should see plenty of opportunities, as Pittsburgh struggled to find an answer at running back last year. Bell isn't an elite talent, but he's a big back with solid hands. Bell gets a little bump in PPR leagues.

5. Johnathan Franklin, Green Bay Packers

The Packers all but ensured they will have a better running attack next year by drafting Lacy and Franklin. Lacy's presence hurts Franklin's value, but he should still get his touches.

If Lacy's toe becomes an issue, suddenly Franklin has a ton of appeal.